Leviticus 7:37

KJV

This [is] the law of the burnt offering, of the meat offering, and of the sin offering, and of the trespass offering, and of the consecrations, and of the sacrifice of the peace offerings;

KJV (with Strong's)

This is the law {H8451} of the burnt offering {H5930}, of the meat offering {H4503}, and of the sin offering {H2403}, and of the trespass offering {H817}, and of the consecrations {H4394}, and of the sacrifice {H2077} of the peace offerings {H8002};

Complete Jewish Bible

This is the law for the burnt offering, the grain offering, the sin offering, the guilt offering, the consecration offering and the sacrifice of peace offerings

Berean Standard Bible

This is the law of the burnt offering, the grain offering, the sin offering, the guilt offering, the ordination offering, and the peace offering,

American Standard Version

This is the law of the burnt-offering, of the meal-offering, and of the sin-offering, and of the trespass-offering, and of the consecration, and of the sacrifice of peace-offerings;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Leviticus 7:37 serves as a climactic and comprehensive summary statement, meticulously concluding the extensive legal instructions concerning the various sacrificial offerings detailed in the initial chapters of the book. This verse systematically enumerates the six primary categories of offerings—the burnt offering, grain offering, sin offering, trespass offering, consecration offering, and peace offering—thereby encapsulating the foundational elements of Israelite worship, atonement, and fellowship with God as divinely ordained through Moses. It underscores the comprehensive nature and divine authority of the sacrificial system, designed to facilitate a holy people's approach to a holy God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Leviticus 7:37 functions as the formal conclusion to a significant literary unit encompassing [Leviticus 1](/leviticus/1 "Leviticus 1 - The Burnt Offering") through [Leviticus 7](/leviticus/7 "Leviticus 7 - Laws for Offerings"). This expansive section provides detailed, prescriptive instructions for both the priests and the people regarding the proper execution and theological purpose of each major type of sacrifice. Chapters 1-5 introduce the offerings from the perspective of the worshiper, outlining what to bring and why, primarily focusing on the layperson's responsibility. Chapters 6-7 then shift focus, providing specific regulations for the priests concerning their handling of the offerings, their designated portions, and the sanctity required in their sacred duties. Verse 37, therefore, acts as a legal colophon or concluding formula, certifying that the preceding seven chapters constitute the complete "law" (Hebrew: _torah_) for these foundational acts of worship, emphasizing their divine origin and comprehensive scope. It marks a crucial transition point before the narrative shifts to the actual implementation of these laws during the ordination of Aaron and his sons in [Leviticus 8](/leviticus/8 "Leviticus 8 - Consecration of Aaron and His Sons").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** These sacrificial laws were given to Moses at [Mount Sinai](/exodus/19 "Exodus 19 - God's Presence at Mount Sinai") shortly after Israel's miraculous deliverance from Egyptian bondage and the establishment of the Mosaic Covenant. The Israelites, newly formed into a nation, were transitioning from nomadic freedom to a structured, covenantal relationship with a holy God. They had witnessed God's awesome presence and absolute holiness at Sinai, and these sacrificial laws provided the divinely appointed means for a sinful people to approach and maintain fellowship with a holy God. The Tabernacle, which had just been completed (as detailed in [Exodus 40](/exodus/40 "Exodus 40 - The Tabernacle Completed")), served as the central place of worship where these offerings would be performed by the newly consecrated priesthood. While sacrificial systems were common in the ancient Near East, Yahweh's laws distinguished themselves by their ethical demands, the emphasis on atonement for sin, and the underlying theological truth of God's absolute holiness and justice, contrasting sharply with pagan practices. These offerings were essential for the spiritual health and communal identity of Israel, providing a tangible framework for confession, expiation, dedication, and thanksgiving within their covenant relationship.

* **Key Themes:** Leviticus 7:37, by summarizing the various offerings, contributes significantly to several overarching themes present in the book of Leviticus and the broader Pentateuch. Foremost among these is the theme of **Holiness**, emphasizing God's absolute purity and the necessity for His people to be holy in order to approach Him. The meticulous nature of the laws underscores that access to God is not casual but requires a divinely appointed means of **Atonement** and **Purification** for sin, particularly through the shedding of blood, as seen in the sin and trespass offerings ([Leviticus 4](/leviticus/4 "Leviticus 4 - The Sin Offering")). The offerings also highlight the theme of **Covenant Relationship**, providing the framework for Israel to maintain their unique bond with Yahweh. Furthermore, they teach **Worship and Dedication**, demonstrating how the Israelites were to express their devotion, gratitude, and surrender to God through acts of sacrifice. Finally, the inclusion of the peace offering underscores the theme of **Fellowship and Communion** with God, where the worshiper could partake in a meal with God, symbolizing restored peace and intimacy ([Leviticus 3](/leviticus/3 "Leviticus 3 - The Peace Offering")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Law (Hebrew, _tôwrâh'_):** From H8451 (tôwrâh), this term, often translated as "law," carries a broader meaning than mere legalistic rules. It signifies divine instruction, teaching, or guidance. In this context, it emphasizes that the detailed procedures for the offerings are not human inventions but God's authoritative, comprehensive, and perfect revelation for how His people to approach Him, seek atonement, and live in covenant relationship. It points to the divine origin and binding nature of these sacrificial ordinances.
* **Meat offering (Hebrew, _minchâh'_):** From H4503 (minchâh), while the KJV translates this as "meat offering," the Hebrew _minchah_ (often rendered "grain offering" or "meal offering") refers to a non-animal sacrifice, typically consisting of fine flour, oil, and frankincense. This offering was a voluntary gift, acknowledging God's provision and symbolizing dedication of one's labor and sustenance to the Lord. It often accompanied animal sacrifices, signifying a complete act of worship and dependence.
* **Consecrations (Hebrew, _milluʼ'_):** From H4394 (milluʼ), this unique term literally means "fillings" or "installations," referring specifically to the offerings made during the ordination ceremony of priests. As seen in [Leviticus 8:22-29](/leviticus/8-22-29 "Leviticus 8:22-29 - The Ram of Consecration"), these offerings involved specific animal sacrifices and portions placed in the hands of the priests, symbolizing their being "filled" or "installed" into their sacred office and dedicated wholly to God's service. It highlights the special sanctity and divine authorization required for those who would mediate between God and His people.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"This [is] the law of the burnt offering,"**: This clause introduces the first and most fundamental offering, the _'olah_ (burnt offering). It was a voluntary sacrifice, entirely consumed by fire on the altar, symbolizing complete dedication, surrender, and general atonement for unintentional sins. It represented the worshiper's total devotion and commitment to God.
* **"of the meat offering,"**: This refers to the _minchah_ (grain offering), a non-bloody offering of fine flour, oil, and frankincense. It was an act of thanksgiving and dedication, acknowledging God's provision and consecrating the fruits of one's labor and sustenance to Him. It often accompanied the burnt offering and peace offering, signifying a holistic act of worship.
* **"and of the sin offering,"**: The _chatta't_ (sin offering) was a mandatory offering for unintentional sins committed by individuals or the community. Its primary purpose was expiation and purification, cleansing the worshiper and the sanctuary from the defilement of sin, thereby restoring fellowship with God. It underscored the gravity of sin and the necessity of blood atonement.
* **"and of the trespass offering,"**: The _'asham_ (trespass or guilt offering) was required for specific transgressions, particularly those involving a breach of trust, misappropriation of holy things, or damage to another person's property. It often involved restitution in addition to the sacrifice, emphasizing the need to make amends for specific wrongs and restore what was taken or damaged.
* **"and of the consecrations,"**: This refers to the _millu'im_ (ordination offerings), specifically those performed during the installation of priests into their sacred office. These offerings, detailed in [Leviticus 8](/leviticus/8 "Leviticus 8 - Consecration of Aaron and His Sons"), were crucial for sanctifying Aaron and his sons, setting them apart exclusively for service in the Tabernacle and enabling them to mediate between God and Israel.
* **"and of the sacrifice of the peace offerings;"**: The _shelamim_ (peace offering) was a voluntary offering made for thanksgiving, to fulfill a vow, or as a freewill offering. It was unique in that a portion was given to God, a portion to the priests, and the remainder was eaten by the worshiper and his family in a communal meal, symbolizing fellowship, restored peace, and harmonious communion with God.

#### Literary Devices
Leviticus 7:37 employs several significant literary devices to achieve its purpose as a concluding statement. Primarily, it functions as a **Summary** or **Recapitulation**, providing a concise yet comprehensive list of all the major offerings detailed in the preceding chapters. This acts as a formal concluding statement, reinforcing the scope and importance of the entire sacrificial system. The verse also utilizes **Enumeration**, systematically listing each distinct type of offering, which serves to emphasize the unique nature and specific purpose of each sacrifice while collectively highlighting the multifaceted ways in which Israel was to approach God. Furthermore, the introductory phrase "This [is] the law of..." acts as a **Legal Formula** or **Colophon**, formally concluding the legislative section and lending divine authority and finality to the instructions. This precise structure underscores the meticulous and divinely ordained nature of the entire sacrificial system, leaving no doubt about its comprehensive and authoritative character as God's revealed will.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Leviticus 7:37, by summarizing the various offerings, profoundly emphasizes God's unwavering holiness, His meticulous demands for worship, and His gracious provision for atonement and fellowship. The distinct purposes of each offering—from complete dedication (burnt offering) to expiation for sin (sin and trespass offerings) to thanksgiving and communion (peace offering)—reveal a comprehensive divine strategy for a sinful people to draw near to a holy God. This system, though complex, was designed to teach Israel about the gravity of sin, the necessity of substitutionary atonement, and the joy of restored relationship. It underscored that access to God was not arbitrary but required a divinely appointed means, foreshadowing the ultimate, perfect sacrifice.

* [Hebrews 9:22](/hebrews/9-22 "Hebrews 9:22 - Without the Shedding of Blood There Is No Forgiveness")
* [Romans 5:1](/romans/5-1 "Romans 5:1 - Justification by Faith and Peace with God")
* [1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones and a Holy Priesthood")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the specific animal sacrifices of Leviticus are no longer practiced by believers today, the spiritual truths they embody remain eternally relevant and profoundly impactful for our understanding of God and our walk with Him. This summary verse reminds us of God's unwavering holiness and the profound seriousness of sin, which always requires a divine remedy and a perfect sacrifice. It compels us to reflect on the comprehensive nature of Christ's work, which perfectly fulfills every aspect of these ancient shadows, making full and final atonement for us. Our worship, like the offerings, should be marked by intentionality, dedication, and a deep understanding of what it means to approach a holy God who has made a way for us. We are called to offer ourselves as living sacrifices, acknowledging Christ's finished work and living lives of thanksgiving, confession, and fellowship with God and one another. Understanding the "law" of these offerings deepens our appreciation for the singular, all-sufficient sacrifice of Jesus Christ, prompting us to live out the implications of His redemptive work in every area of our lives.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the detailed nature of the Levitical laws, summarized in this verse, inform your understanding of God's character and His expectations for worship and holiness?**
* **Considering the various types of offerings (burnt, sin, peace, etc.), which aspects of Christ's work do you see most clearly foreshadowed in each, and how does that deepen your gratitude for His comprehensive sacrifice?**
* **In what practical ways can believers today offer "spiritual sacrifices" (as mentioned in [1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones and a Holy Priesthood")) that reflect the dedication, repentance, and thanksgiving seen in the Old Testament offerings?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of Leviticus 7:37 being a "summary" verse?**

Answer: Leviticus 7:37 serves as a crucial concluding statement for the detailed instructions on the sacrificial system found in [Leviticus 1-7](/leviticus/1 "Leviticus 1 - The Burnt Offering"). Its significance lies in formally consolidating and affirming the divine authority and comprehensive scope of these laws. By listing all six major categories of offerings, it acts as a legal colophon, indicating that the preceding chapters constitute the complete "law" (Hebrew: _torah_) for these essential acts of worship. This summary underscores the meticulousness of God's requirements and the foundational role of these sacrifices in Israel's covenant relationship with Him, preparing the way for their practical implementation.

**What does the KJV phrase "meat offering" actually mean, and why is it important to understand?**

Answer: The KJV phrase "meat offering" is a somewhat archaic translation of the Hebrew word _minchah_ (מִנְחָה). In 17th-century English, "meat" could refer to food in general, not exclusively animal flesh. The _minchah_ was, in fact, a "grain offering" or "meal offering," consisting of fine flour, oil, and frankincense, not animal flesh. Understanding this distinction is important for accurate interpretation, as it clarifies that not all offerings involved blood sacrifice. The grain offering symbolized the dedication of one's labor, sustenance, and the fruits of the land to God, often accompanying animal sacrifices to represent a more complete act of worship and dependence on divine provision, as seen in [Leviticus 2](/leviticus/2 "Leviticus 2 - The Grain Offering").

**Are the laws of these offerings still relevant for Christians today, given that Jesus fulfilled the Law?**

Answer: While Christians are no longer required to perform these animal sacrifices because Jesus Christ's perfect, once-for-all sacrifice fulfilled and superseded the Old Testament sacrificial system (as highlighted in [Hebrews 10:1-18](/hebrews/10-1 "Hebrews 10 - Christ's Sacrifice Superior to Animal Sacrifices")), the spiritual principles and theological truths embedded in these laws remain profoundly relevant. They teach us about the holiness of God, the seriousness of sin, the necessity of atonement, the concept of substitution, and the importance of dedication, thanksgiving, and fellowship with God. These ancient shadows point forward to the person and work of Christ, helping us to grasp the depth and breadth of His redemptive work and how we are now called to offer ourselves as "living sacrifices" ([Romans 12:1](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - Living Sacrifices")) in worship and service.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Leviticus 7:37, in its comprehensive summary of the sacrificial system, serves as a profound prophetic blueprint pointing directly to the multifaceted and all-sufficient work of Jesus Christ. Each offering, though distinct in its immediate purpose, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Him. The **burnt offering**, symbolizing complete dedication and general atonement, is perfectly embodied in Christ's absolute surrender to the Father's will, even to death on the cross, a sacrifice entirely consumed for our sakes ([Hebrews 10:7](/hebrews/10-7 "Hebrews 10:7 - Christ's Obedience")). The **grain offering**, representing dedication of labor and provision, is fulfilled in Christ, the "bread of life" ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")), who offered His perfect life and service as a pleasing aroma to God. The **sin offering** and **trespass offering**, designed for expiation and restitution for specific sins, are completely satisfied by Christ, who became sin for us ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Became Sin for Us")) and paid the full penalty for our transgressions, reconciling us to God through His blood ([Colossians 1:20](/colossians/1-20 "Colossians 1:20 - Reconciliation Through Christ")). The **consecrations**, which set priests apart for holy service, are fulfilled in Christ, our great High Priest, who consecrated Himself once for all time, enabling us, through Him, to draw near to God with confidence ([Hebrews 7:26-27](/hebrews/7-26-27 "Hebrews 7:26-27 - Christ Our High Priest") and [Hebrews 10:19-20](/hebrews/10-19-20 "Hebrews 10:19-20 - Access Through Christ's Blood")). Finally, the **peace offering**, signifying fellowship and communion with God, culminates in Christ, who is our peace ([Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Our Peace")), having broken down the dividing wall of hostility and established true, lasting fellowship between God and humanity through His blood ([Romans 5:1](/romans/5-1 "Romans 5:1 - Justification by Faith and Peace with God")). Thus, Leviticus 7:37 is not merely an ancient list but a profound testament to the comprehensive and all-sufficient redemptive work of our Savior.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Exodus 29:1

¶ And this [is] the thing that thou shalt do unto them to hallow them, to minister unto me in the priest's office: Take one young bullock, and two rams without blemish,

Leviticus 6:20

This [is] the offering of Aaron and of his sons, which they shall offer unto the LORD in the day when he is anointed; the tenth part of an ephah of fine flour for a meat offering perpetual, half of it in the morning, and half thereof at night.

Leviticus 7:7

As the sin offering [is], so [is] the trespass offering: [there is] one law for them: the priest that maketh atonement therewith shall have [it].

Leviticus 1:1

¶ And the LORD called unto Moses, and spake unto him out of the tabernacle of the congregation, saying,

Leviticus 5:6

And he shall bring his trespass offering unto the LORD for his sin which he hath sinned, a female from the flock, a lamb or a kid of the goats, for a sin offering; and the priest shall make an atonement for him concerning his sin.

Exodus 29:38

¶ Now this [is that] which thou shalt offer upon the altar; two lambs of the first year day by day continually.

Exodus 29:42

[This shall be] a continual burnt offering throughout your generations [at] the door of the tabernacle of the congregation before the LORD: where I will meet you, to speak there unto thee.